Rochester Community Schools Superintendent Robert Shaner issued the following statement Thursday in response to the tragedy at Davidson Middle School in Southgate on Thursday morning. According to reports, a 13-year-old boy died after he shot himself in the school bathroom.

Shaner sent the following statement in an email to parents:

"You may have heard the sad news out of Southgate this morning that a middle school student apparently committed suicide in a restroom at Davidson Middle School. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, and to the Davidson school community, as they respond to this tragedy and provide support for students, parents and staff members.

"As a parent, I understand the inclination to wonder if such a thing could happen in one of our schools, to one of our students. Suicide is a complicated and heartbreaking issue, and I do not pretend to be an expert or to have all the answers. I do believe that we have the ability and desire as a district to develop strong relationships with our students and that, working in partnership with parents, we can be mindful of the issues that students face in these complex and sometimes puzzling times. I can also share that we do have both policy and procedures in place if we suspect that a student is troubled. These are not guarantees I know, and I’m sure Davidson Middle School has similar practices, but I wanted you to be aware that we have given this thought and have resources to help students.

"In closing, I hope you will take an extra minute to hug your children tonight, and let them know that there are many adults in their lives who care about them. I know that is what my wife and I will be doing in our home."